IF YOU GO

CUERO - A new year is almost upon us, and around the world, people are preparing to bring a fresh new 365 days with a bash.

In Cuero, Amy Thigpen, manager of The Venue on Church Street, is getting ready to celebrate New Year's Eve with a bang.

"It's a way to start the new year off right. It's an exciting time, and this has been an exciting time for Cuero, so it's a good place to celebrate," Thigpen said.

The party will feature both live music by local musicians Matt Thigpen and Gordon Barth and a DJ for later in the evening.

Food for the event will be provided by Brine Events, with champagne at the bar.

Thigpen took over managing events for The Venue in November. When people approached her asking whether there would be a New Year's Eve party, she liked the idea and decided to move forward with it.

Thigpen has been working as a corporate event planner for 10 years and a wedding planner for five years. While November was short notice, Thigpen knew she could put together an event people would enjoy.

The trick is providing good snacks, a steady flow of drinks, music and a place where people can safely celebrate the new year, she said.

Over the years, Thigpen has learned the tricks of the trade to hosting a successful New Year's Eve party.

When hosting an event like this, people don't have to serve full meals. A plentiful offering of other appetizers - like the macadamia nut chicken strips, pulled pork sliders and an array of appetizers being served at The Venue - works better. The alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages should be in good supply, she said. The Venue will serve champagne, but those attending may bring their own liquor. When midnight rolls around, marking the beginning of 2013, there will be plenty of noisemakers and other party favors on hand to mark the change from the old year to a new one.

"The kids love them, and after a certain point in the evening, adults love them too," she said.

Cuero police also will be on hand to make sure the party-goers stay safe and have a good time, she said.

Tickets are $50 per person and must be purchased in advance.

"It's an excellent venue for this kind of party," she said. "I think we're going to have a lot of fun."